Managing swelling after breast reduction | Tips for recovery
According to the BAAPS, the breast reduction procedure is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the UK, and it saw a 120% rise from 2022 to 2023. There are many reasons why somebody would want a smaller breast size, such as reducing shoulder, neck and back pain, and helping with their body image and self-esteem – both for women and men (male breast reduction is also known as gynaecomastia).
Breast reduction surgery can change your life, enhancing your quality of life. However, after the surgery, patients may experience swelling, bruising, pain and scarring, which is completely natural and should be expected. It is important to follow your cosmetic surgeon’s advice and manage the swelling, particularly in the first couple weeks after the surgery.
This guide will explore what swelling you can expect after breast reduction surgery, giving helpful insights to understand and reduce swelling after breast reduction.
Click on one of the links below to jump to that section:
- What causes breast swelling after breast reduction?
- What should you do in the first week of breast reduction recovery?
- How can you manage swelling during the rest of the recovery period?
- When should I speak to my plastic surgeon about my swelling?
- Frequently asked questions
What causes breast swelling after breast reduction?
Swelling is a common part of healing. When your cosmetic surgeon removes breast tissue, fat, and skin during breast reduction surgery, it disturbs the nearby tissues. This disturbance causes an inflammatory response. During the recovery period, you may notice swelling, redness, warmth, and pain in the surgical area.
This response is your body’s way of protecting itself. It helps by sending important nutrients and white blood cells to the surgical site. These cells and fluids clear away damaged tissue, fight infections, and rebuild healthy tissue.
Some swelling is normal, but too much or swelling that lasts too long can mean a problem. If you are unsure or are experiencing any strange symptoms, make sure to consult with your cosmetic surgeon. They will be able to assess and advise further.
For more information, read our guide on what to expect after breast reduction surgery here.
How long does swelling typically last after breast reduction surgery?
Swelling will be most prominent in the first couple of weeks after breast reduction surgery, along with some bruising. You will see the swelling gradually decrease in the weeks after, improving within six to eight weeks as the breasts become softer and into the optimum shape. However, this may vary depending on your aftercare, body type, and any other harming factors, like smoking or poor health.
Be patient and give your body enough time to heal. Following your surgeon’s advice and staying in touch with them will help you through your recovery process.
What should you do in the first week of breast reduction recovery?
The first 48 hours after your breast reduction surgery are very important. This time helps manage swelling and sets up a good recovery. You must follow all the instructions from your surgeon, and have someone help you with daily tasks and strenuous activities.
You should rest as much as possible, raising your upper body and avoiding any extra movements.
Top tips for managing initial swelling
For aftercare guidance, consider the following tips to manage swelling after breast reduction:
- Keep your breasts elevated.
- Use pillows to rest and lift your upper body.
- Do not wear underwire bras as they can make you uncomfortable.
- Wear comfortable clothing that lets you move easily without pressing the surgical area.
- Avoid hot showers or baths since they boost blood flow and worsen swelling.
The first week after your surgery is very important for healing. As your pain begins to ease, you may notice you have more energy. It’s still really important to rest and move around slowly.
Adjusting your diet to reduce swelling
Eating a healthy diet and drinking plenty of water is very important for helping your body heal. Try to focus on eating foods that are good for tissue repair and that can help reduce swelling.
Make sure to add a lot of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains to your meals. These foods are full of important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants and can help speed up healing and strengthen your immune system.
Gentle exercises
Though you should avoid strenuous exercise, gentle activities can help your blood circulation, and reduce swelling during the healing period.
Towards the end of the first week, begin with short walks around your home, then start to walk further once you feel better and the pain has subsided. Light walking is a great way to move your body as it won’t put too much stress on the surgical site. You should be able to go swimming for further exercises 4 weeks after the surgery provided fully healed.
How can you manage swelling during the rest of the recovery period?
As you start the second week of recovery, you should see less swelling and feel more comfortable overall. You may feel ready to slowly increase your activity and get back to parts of your daily routine. However, it’s important to do this carefully and with your plastic surgeon’s guidance.
Pay attention to what your body tells you, and do not push yourself too hard. If you feel discomfort or pain, take a break and lessen your activity.
Compression Garments and Their Role
Your surgeon will likely tell you to wear a compression bra or surgical bra all the time, except when you are showering, during the first few weeks of recovery. Compression garments can be helpful to support the healing breast and reduce discomfort; they support your new breast shape and help reduce swelling.
Surgical bras give gentle and steady pressure, which helps stop fluid from building up and encourages lymphatic drainage. These bras also limit movement and support the healing tissues, reducing discomfort and the risk of complications. However, these garments should be gently supportive and overly tight to the point they cause pain.
Scar Management Techniques
Scarring is also a normal part of healing after breast reduction surgery. While scars usually fade over time, there are ways to help them heal better and look less noticeable:
- Stopping smoking
- Maintaining a healthy diet
- Applying creams
- Gently massaging the surgical area
- Using silicone gel sheets
Read our expert guide on the different types of breast reduction scarring and how to manage them during recovery here.
When should I speak to my plastic surgeon about my swelling?
Some swelling is normal after breast reduction surgery. However, if the swelling is too much or lasts too long, it might mean there are problems. It’s very important to talk to your plastic surgeon during your recovery process.
You should call your plastic surgeon right away if you notice any of these signs:
- A sudden or big increase in swelling
- Severe pain that doesn’t go away with medicine
- Redness or warmth near the incision spots
- Fever or chills
- Drainage from the cuts
- Any other strange or worrying symptoms
Stephen McCulley
Stephen McCulley works extensively as a cosmetic, plastic and reconstructive surgeon, offering private patients the latest surgical techniques in cosmetic surgery. Stephen and his team prioritise realistic and achievable options for patients, with a fully honest line of communication during the breast surgery consultation. During the consultation, make sure to ask our team any questions you may have regarding swelling and breast reduction recovery , and we will help guide you through this process.
If you are interested in undergoing a breast reduction, contact Stephen McCulley and his team to book your consultation.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best positions to sweep in to manage swelling?
It is usually suggested to sleep on your back with your upper body raised after breast reduction surgery. This helps reduce pressure on the surgical area and encourages drainage of fluid, which can help control swelling.